Shigoto Zukan
日本語

Will AI replace layout workers, metal and plastic?AI replacement risk 25% and how the work is changing

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$63,870
25th–75th pct. $50,910–$79,470
Top pay (est.)
$122,000
Top 10% $93,860
Pay in 5 years
$73,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$84,300est.
$72,500–$97,900
Outlook score
45/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
25%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
−3.4%
500 openings / yr

Will AI replace Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic? AI replacement risk

25%
Low
Ranked #180 safest from AI among all U.S. occupations
Very lowLowModerateHighVery high

How AI is changing this job

A written analysis for this occupation is being prepared.

AI replacement risk compares the parts of a job that are easy to hand to AI or software (processing information, documentation, repetitive computer work) with the parts that are hard to automate (physical work, working closely with people, judgment in unpredictable settings), using O*NET work activities, work context, skills and knowledge. The result is a relative position among all occupations in the country, scaled to 0–100%. Methodology →

Skills, education and requirements for Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic

Key skills

Mathematics
3.1
Critical Thinking
3.1
Monitoring
3.0
Coordination
3.0
Reading Comprehension
2.9
Active Listening
2.9
Complex Problem Solving
2.9
Quality Control Analysis
2.9

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Design
4.5
Mathematics
4.2
Building and Construction
4.2
Engineering and Technology
4.1
Mechanical
4.0
English Language
3.7
Production and Processing
3.4
Education and Training
3.3

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesPerforming General Physical ActivitiesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment

Important abilities

Near VisionVisualizationOral ComprehensionArm-Hand SteadinessProblem SensitivityCategory Flexibility

Education of workers

High school diploma
60%
Some college
15%
Post-secondary certificate
12%
Associate's degree
9%
Less than high school
5%

Training before entry

None / short demo
25%
6–12 months
20%
1–2 years
17%
2–4 years
14%
3–6 months
10%
1–3 months
9%
Up to 1 month
5%

Related work experience

1–2 years
55%
4–6 years
18%
None
9%
6–12 months
9%
2–4 years
6%
1–3 months
2%

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.